Hawaii Real Estate State Practice Exam

In a condominium association, common elements, which include shared spaces and amenities such as hallways, pools, and gardens, are typically governed by a board of directors elected by the unit owners. This board is responsible for making decisions related to the management, maintenance, and operation of these common areas. Having an elected board creates a structured and organized way for owners to have representation and oversight over communal decisions, ensuring that the interests of the community are upheld and that disputes can be resolved within the framework of the association's governance documents.

The developer usually holds substantial control in the initial stages of the condominium's establishment, but as the association matures and ownership transitions to the residents, governance shifts to the Board of Directors. Local government regulations may provide external standards that the association must adhere to, but they do not govern the internal operation of common elements. While residents can indeed voice their opinions and may vote on certain matters, the formal governance and operational authority are vested within the elected board. Therefore, the election of a board allows for a democratically managed community, emphasizing the importance of collective decision-making in condominium living.